About Us
Our Story
We are a community of individuals and families committed to creating a more connected, sustainable, and meaningful way of living together — with neurodiversity at the center.
Founded by Parents
How We Began
Front Porch Cohousing was founded by parents of autistic individuals who believed that modern housing had failed their children. They saw a system that offered only institutional group homes or isolated apartments — neither of which provided the genuine community connection that every person deserves.
In response, they created a community model that balances privacy with togetherness, independence with interdependence. Our cohousing approach provides private homes for each resident while fostering shared spaces and collective activities that bring people together.
Today, Front Porch Cohousing by NDL stands as a 501(c)3 nonprofit committed to building our first community in Bucks County, Pennsylvania — a testament to what's possible when people commit to living intentionally and supporting one another.
See Our Community
The Model
What is Cohousing?
Cohousing is an intentional community model where residents actively participate in the design and operation of their neighborhood. Each household has a private, self-contained dwelling, but residents come together to manage their community, share resources, and enjoy common facilities.
Unlike traditional neighborhoods, cohousing communities are designed to foster interaction and cooperation while respecting individual privacy and autonomy. This creates a unique living environment that combines the best of both worlds — and for adults with IDDs, it provides the support structure they need without sacrificing independence.
What Guides Us
Our Core Values
These principles guide every decision we make and shape the culture of our community.
Community & Connection
Fostering deep relationships and a sense of belonging.
We believe in creating a vibrant, interconnected community where neighbors know and support each other. Our design encourages spontaneous interactions and shared activities, building strong bonds that enrich everyone's lives.
Sustainability & Stewardship
Living lightly on the earth, together.
Our commitment extends to the planet. We prioritize eco-friendly practices, shared resources, and sustainable living choices to minimize our environmental footprint and ensure a healthy future for generations to come.
Inclusivity & Respect
Embracing diversity and mutual understanding.
Front Porch Cohousing is a place where everyone feels welcome and valued. We celebrate our differences, listen actively, and treat each other with respect, fostering an environment of acceptance and open dialogue.
Collaboration & Mutual Support
Working together for the common good.
We thrive on collective effort and shared responsibility. Residents actively participate in decision-making, contribute to community tasks, and offer support to one another, strengthening our collective well-being.
The Details
How Our Community Works
Shared Decision-Making
All major decisions affecting the community are made collectively through consensus-based processes. Every member has a voice in shaping our shared future.
Common Meals & Gatherings
We share meals together several times a week in our common house, fostering connection and reducing individual cooking responsibilities. Participation is voluntary but highly valued.
Shared Resources
From tools and equipment to guest rooms and recreational facilities, we share resources that would be expensive or wasteful for each household to own individually.
Community Participation
Each household contributes to the community through work teams, committees, and shared maintenance responsibilities. This collaborative approach keeps our community thriving.
Leadership
Board of Directors
The Front Porch Cohousing Board of Directors is the governing body of our non-profit, focusing on high-level strategy, oversight, and accountability. As parents of autistic adults themselves, our board members bring both professional expertise and lived experience to every decision.
Jim Richardson
Co-Founder & CEO
Jim has over 35 years of consulting services experience and has been investing in real estate for 40 years. As a principal in a commercial real estate capital consulting firm, he has experience raising and managing discretionary investment capital. As a parent of a grown son with autism, his business vision and personal mission connect in a most meaningful way.
Nancy Carey
Co-Founder & Vice President
Nancy has been involved in the autistic community since the day her son was diagnosed 25+ years ago. Her business background and personal interest in advancing awareness and support for individuals living on the autism spectrum has intersected in unique ways over the years.
Steve Grumann
Executive Director, Government Relations
Steve is the proud husband of TeriLyn and dad to Reed, Simon, and Lyla. The behavioral services they were able to get for their Autistic son, Simon, lifted him from a frustrated, non-verbal boy into a highly articulate, kind, and engaged young man. As Simon makes his way into adulthood, Steve is immensely pleased to help create the safe, respectful, and integrated living environments that Simon and everyone like him richly deserve.
Scott Dickinson
Executive Director, Land Acquisition
Scott brings a wealth of experience with a long and successful land development and vertical construction career. His commitment to thoughtful urban planning aligns perfectly with our organization's mission. Scott resides in Kennett Square with his wife, Deb, and their son, Cooper, who is on the autism spectrum. His personal experiences have given him unique insights into creating inclusive and supportive environments.
Expertise & Guidance
Advisory Board
Our Advisory Board brings nationally recognized expertise in housing development, fundraising, governance, and community inclusion — ensuring that FPC builds neighborhoods where everyone truly belongs.
Cubby Sporrong
Capital Formation Advisor
Cubby brings more than 10 years of experience in commercial real estate finance and development. An investor at TPG Angelo Gordon for real estate private equity and founder of Arche Women's Network, Cubby provides direction on Front Porch Cohousing developments and financing solutions.
Desiree Kameka Galloway
Strategic Advisor, Community Development & Operations
A nationally recognized leader in disability and neuro-inclusive housing. As founder of Neuro-Inclusive Housing Solutions, LLC and former Director of the Autism Housing Network, she has shaped national policy, guided more than 250 organizations, and co-authored the landmark report "A Place in the World."
Danielle Vickers
Senior Advisor, Major Gifts & Campaign Development
Dani has over 20 years of experience driving philanthropic growth for mission-driven organizations, with a proven track record of raising more than $10 million. As the proud mom of Sloane, a spirited 9-year-old with Down syndrome, her lived experience fuels her commitment to advancing neuroinclusive communities.
Toby Mathis, Esq.
Legal & Estate Planning Advisor
A nationally recognized attorney and co-founder of Anderson Business Advisors and Infinity Investing, specializing in asset protection, tax strategy, and estate planning. As Legal & Estate Planning Advisor to FPC, Toby provides strategic guidance on entity structure, governance, and philanthropic planning.
Mary Brawner
Community Development Coordinator
Mary brings more than 20 years of experience in healthcare and community engagement. A dedicated advocate for accessibility, employment inclusion, and community-based supports, Mary is also the proud parent of a daughter with autism — informing her deep commitment to creating housing solutions that enable individuals of all abilities to thrive.
Collaboration
Our Partners
At Front Porch Cohousing, we don't just provide homes — we build communities. Our partners share our vision and dedication, offering services that range from financial planning to architecture and community advocacy.
Anderson Advisors
Asset Protection & Estate Planning
Anderson Advisors takes a unique approach to asset protection, working on a fee-based structure so clients can take an active role in implementing their plan. They offer a free 45-minute Estate Planning strategy session for FPC families.
Free Estate Planning Session →1847 Financial
Special Needs Financial Planning
The 1847 Financial Special Needs Planning Team works with families who need help creating a comprehensive financial strategy for their loved one with special needs — developing a complete financial and social strategy to assist individuals in living the life they desire.
Visit 1847 Financial →Lenhardt Rodgers
Architecture & Interior Design
An accomplished architecture and interior design firm specializing in mission-driven design — specifically senior living, places of worship, and affordable housing. With a 70-year history, they are known as the 'people' people, thriving on applying their skills to realize each client's unique vision.
Visit Lenhardt Rodgers →Families CCAN
Disability Advocacy & Community
A PA non-profit founded by individuals with disabilities and their families. Their mission is to enable adults with disabilities to live happy, full, and independent lives. They bring together knowledge, resources, tools, and networks to organize, train, and inspire families.
Visit Families CCAN →Want to Learn More?
Whether you're a family, a supporter, or simply curious about neuroinclusive cohousing — we'd love to connect.